The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the nation’s health protection agency recommend face masks as an essential precaution. Face masks are one of the solutions to prevent the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 (the virus responsible for COVID-19).
Recently, we have seen many celebs and normal citizens shifting to plastic shield masks as they are more comfortable. However, medical experts have responded to the trending plastic face shield as an inadequate protector from COVID-19. They state that these shield masks can be used as a supplement to cloth masks but must not replace with them.
To get more insights and most recent information on the COVID-19 pandemic continue reading.
Why Face shields? Do they help reduce the spread of COVID-19?
Droplet transmission is one of the major and primary mechanisms for the virus to spread. To save yourself from Airborne transmissions, the experts recommended the exercise of face masks. A plastic face shield is also helpful in reducing the risk of contracting the COVID-19 virus but they have few flaws also.
The open areas around the plastic visor work as a barrier to protection. The droplets and airborne particles can easily pass through these openings and the virus can reach out to you. This is why it has been rolled out if you want to wear shields for fashion or trends, follow a cloth mask inside too.
Benefits of a Face Shield
- Wear a Face Shield along with a Mask
Face shields are beneficial only if you wear them along with a cloth face mask. This technique adds double protection to you and your closed ones. It is better if both parties are wearing them together.
- Face Shields Protect the Whole Face
Face Shields must almost reach out to the ears and there must be no gap in between your forehead and the front of the shield. A minor gap can make it easier for the droplets to enter your zone and infect the body.
Few face shields are long and also protect your entire face, including the eyes. These face shields cover your face from the forehead to the chin and keep large respiratory droplets away from entering your territory.
- You cannot wear it incorrectly
With Face Masks, people have the habit to slip it under the nose or pull to the neck for easy communication or when feeling uncomfortable. But with Face Shields, it becomes hard to shift the shield at your convenience.
Why plastic face shields are a better alternative than cloth masks for few people?
Face masks can irritate your skin, make you feel hot or uncomfortable, fog glasses, and can also be difficult for few people to breathe through it.
Plastic Face Shields are better for people who suffer from hearing loss and communicate through lipreading or facial expressions.
Comparing the two, both have benefits but flaws too. Yet, Cloth face masks are the right choice when it comes to the COVID-19 spread.
Where to buy a Face Shield?
Plastic Face Shields look nice but have their disadvantage whereas Cloth Face masks might cover your full mouth yet work as a good protector. Visit online stores such as Flipkart, Amazon, and Walmart to get a wide range of items.
You can also make both the type of masks at home or office with craft stores or office equipment.